Why in News?
• A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck the Hindu Kush region of Afghanistan last night.
Location
• The Hindu Kush is a mountain range located mainly in Afghanistan, extending into Pakistan and reaching close to Tajikistan.
• Forms the western extension of the Greater Himalayas.
Geographical Features
• High rugged mountains (many peaks >7000 m)
• Important passes → link Central Asia with South Asia historically
• Acts as a climatic barrier (cold winds from Central Asia)
Countries directly linked to the Hindu Kush
| Category | Countries |
| Primary / Core (major portion of the range) | Afghanistan |
| Secondary (eastern extensions, foothills & associated tectonic zone) | Pakistan |
| Peripheral / Proximal influence zone (adjacent to Hindu Kush range & tectonic belt) | Tajikistan |
Seismic Significance
• Lies along major tectonic fault lines
• Region is prone to high magnitude earthquakes
→ Frequent destructive quakes in Hindu Kush / Hindukush seismic belt
River Systems Originating Near / Around It
• Amu Darya basin
• Indus basin tributaries (in eastern parts)
Strategic Importance
• Junction of South Asia – Central Asia – West Asia
• Historically a route for trade + invasions + cultural exchange (Silk Route link)